Gardner Bender Recalls Electrical Wire Splices Due to Shock and Fire Hazards
CPSC recall 08367 · announced August 20, 2008 · Gardner Bender · 53,000 units affected
The product
The recalled butt splices are used to connect electrical wires to one another. They are typically used for wiring small electrical appliances, like audio equipment, or in automotive applications. The splices are yellow insulated vinyl and measure about one inch long and ¼ inch wide. They were intended for use with 12-10 AWG wire. 12-10 is stamped on the side of the splices. Model numbers 10-126, or 21-126, and Gardner Bender are printed on the product's packaging. They were sold in packages of 8 or 50.
The hazard
When crimped, the splice can fail to hold the wires adequately together, posing a shock and fire hazard to consumers.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should immediately stop using products that contain the recalled butt splices and contact the firm for free replacement splices.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): Gardner Bender has received one report of a recalled butt splice failing to hold wires together. No injuries have been reported.
Sold at: Electrical distributors, hardware stores, and home centers nationwide from June 2005 through April 2008 for between $1 and $5.
Consumer contact: For additional information, contact Gardner Bender at (800) 624-4320 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.gardnerbender.com
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.